For more than a decade, Helman has qualified for additional funding from the federal government known as Title I. This additional funding is awarded based on a school’s percentage of students who qualify for the Free or Reduced Lunch Program. We’ve seen a steady reduction in these funds over the past three years and subsequently have needed cut significant services to students. Title I funds are used to fund our Reading Specialist and half of our educational assistants. In the past we’ve been able to also fund a Math Specialist, after school homework help, technology, and professional development for staff.